By Mortimer Yangharry
Wabag Open MP and Health Minister, Hon Dr Lino Tom, has announced the official opening of the highly anticipated Wabag Market redevelopment project, a state-of-the-art facility that was fully funded by AusAid at a cost of K13 million.
The inauguration ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow.”We are excited to announce that the long-awaited Wabag Market Opening will take place tomorrow, and we extend an invitation to all to attend,” Minister Lino announced.
The second-term Wabag Open MP confirmed that the Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Jon Philps, will have the honor of officially opening the market. He will be accompanied by Finance Minister, Hon. Rainbo Paita, Jimi Open MP, Hon Wake Goi, Talasea Open MP, Hon Freddie Kumai, and veteran Enga Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas.Minister Lino emphasized that the Wabag Women’s Association will be responsible for managing the market, stating: “When you empower a woman, you empower a family, and an empowered family empowers a society and, ultimately, the nation.”As a medical surgeon turned politician, Minister Lino reiterated his district’s plan, which is based on two key policies:1. Promoting agriculture-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs)2. Ensuring universal access to quality education”We are constructing the necessary infrastructure to achieve our vision of ‘EMPOWERING OUR PEOPLE’,” Minister Lino expressed.
He specifically highlighted the programs funded by the Wabag District Development Authority that contribute to their vision, including:1. Wabag Rural Road Network Program;2. Wabag Rural Electrification Program;3.Wabag Rural Water Supply Systems;4.Wabag Fresh-food Depot;5.School Infrastructure Recapitalization Programs6.Wabag Market; and’7.Wabag Rural Housing Program (commencing soon)”Ultimately, our goal is to empower our people, just as we initially envisioned,” Minister Lino stated.The Wabag Market redevelopment project, which spanned three years, symbolizes a crucial milestone in the economic empowerment of the people of Wabag and Enga Province as a whole. The entire project was made possible through the generous funding of K13 million from AusAid.
